Providence Parking Lot Injury Risks Increase in Winter

February 20, 2018February 20, 2018

Winter increases the risk of injuries and accidents in parking lots. But the truth of the matter is that parking lots are dangerous year-round. Anywhere motorists and pedestrians mix increases accident risks, and that's never more true than in parking lots, where vehicles are often backing out of spots, visibility is often reduced, and basic traffic rules are often ignored.

Furthermore, while distracted driving is a primary threat on the road, drivers are even more likely to be distracted in parking lots, according to a recent article in Safety and Health magazine.

Injury risks in Rhode Island parking lots

An experienced injury lawyer in Providence knows these incidents can include backover accidents, slip and fall injuries, motor-vehicle collisions and even vehicles that drive into storefronts.

Safety begins with property owners. Employers are reminded that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration considers parking lot accidents to be work-related injuries when employees are involved, as discussed in the Safety and Health article.

Property owners can make parking lots safer by ensuring that there is adequate lighting, designs that reduce pedestrian walking distances, highly visible arrows, and warning signs when icy or dangerous conditions exist.

Pedestrians and motorists can also do their part:

Watch for vehicles and take extra care to check your surroundings.

Never assume a motorist will see you.

Refrain from walking between parked vehicles.

Wear appropriate shoes.

Keep track of children by holding their hands. Young children and the elderly are most prone to being injured in parking lot accidents.

Park in spots with less foot traffic and always watch for pedestrians.

Avoid backing up when possible.

Drive slowly and allow yourself extra time to stop.

Liability for Parking Lot Injuries

These are complex cases, often involving a business or property owner and associated liability insurance carriers as well as motor-vehicle operators and their insurance carriers. Identifying all of the factors contributing to your accident, determination of the full extent of your losses and injury, and identifying and pursing all liable parties will offer you the best chance of making a complete recovery.

In the event of a parking lot accident, it's best that you seek the advocacy of an experienced personal injury lawyer at The Law Office of Mark B. Morse, LLC.